5 Tips to Nail Your Next Meeting

October 9, 2018

WEARING: CHICWISH TWEED COAT | GUESS SWEATER | JOES JEANS | PRETTY LITTLE THING SLINGBACKS | ODETTE & ODILE MARBLE POUCH

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY CHICWISH & PLT.

I've been to hundreds of meetings. Some you nail right out of the park and then there are others that don't go as well. First impressions do count-down to the very last detail and after a lot of trial and error, I wanted to share my tips on how to nail your next big meeting! Whether it's your first time meeting with a client you've been dreaming of working together or a quick pow-wow meeting with those you already work with, these essentials will not only make your life easier but the lives of others around you as well. So without further ado, let's get started with my two cents' worth of my top 5 main suggestions for landing your next gig/client.

1. BE ON TIME

Nothing irks me more than those who are regularly late. Biggest pet peeve. Sure, in a city like New York and with all the congested traffic, running 5-10 minutes late is a norm but anything longer than that is just rude and unaccountable. It tells two tale-telling signs (to me): One, you don't take the meeting very seriously if you show up that late and two, it also shows me that you are not reliable (or even worse, irresponsible). So the next best thing for everyone? Just show up a few minutes earlier. If you have to set your alarm fifteen minutes earlier than usual, do it because it'll also save you the hassle of rushing as well, where that's when everyone makes the most mistakes.

2. DO YOUR RESEARCH

I can't tell you how many times I went into a meeting and the person did not do their homework, let alone, know anything about me and/or what I could bring to the table. Eeeek! Don't be that person. If it's more than one person meeting with you, you better research everyone in the room. We're not talking a background check, but yes, know their position and abilities before talking smack about what you can do for them. Demonstrate your preparation by asking questions about the person(s) and not so much about yourself - don't worry they will be asking about you too but don't forget the give and take rule. Listen first, speak later.

3. BE UPFRONT

Now, this doesn't mean opening up your "Dear, Diary" and spilling the 411 on your entire life story, let alone anything super personal. What I mean is don't be afraid to answer with conviction about your skills and knowledge. It doesn't have to be a novella of an answer, but one with a couple short sentences wrapping up your talents with a nice 'bow' if you will. It also doesn't look like you're trying too hard, because who wants to listen to your lists of accomplishments (that you probably memorized off your resume) Keep it short and sweet but with purpose.

4. BE PRESENTABLE

Both physically and mentally. Being present is key along with a first good impression by the way you dress and yes present yourself. Polish those shoes, wear that tie/dress that hugs your hips and makes you feel extra confident but remaining true to you. Obviously, don't show up looking like you're ready to perform in a risque cabaret, but dress the part. The second part is all mental. This has to do with body language, leaving your phone in your bag, to even that initial handshake. They all count. Being present in the moment during a meeting goes a long way, and shows that you're invested and committed to that meeting, and in turn, the job at hand.

5. FOLLOW UP SOONER RATHER THAN LATER

Once you've worked your angles and made your impression to the client, the next best thing is to touch-base rather quickly. Now you don't want to look overly desperate so waiting a day or two is fine, but in this day and age where we are constantly on the go, meeting with other potential clients, and then some, it's easy to forget people and things once too much time has passed. So be diligent and follow through with an email or phone call, thanking them for their time with some sort of continuing conversation regarding your meeting.

Have any questions regarding this post? Well... then GO FOR IT! Drop me a line in the comments section down below or send me an email! We love engaging with our readers and are always down to continue the conversation. Last piece of advice? If you want something badly enough, first and foremost, you have to go for it. Be audacious. Others will know through your actions and words if you really are dedicated in achieving something, whatever it may be. Until next time...

LOVE & XX’S,

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Satin, Leather, Denim and Springbok

October 31, 2017

WEARING: SATIN ROSES SILK DRESS WITH DENIM SLEEVES & COLLAR | 
NA-KD FASHION WORN OUT LEATHER JACKET | GENUINE PEOPLE BELL BOTTOM CROP JEANS | VVA 
CARLINA YELLOW CROSSBODY BAG | GUESS CARRIE BLACK SATIN PUMPS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SATIN ROSES CLOTHING.

Happy Tuesday and Happy Halloween, everyone! Today's post is dedicated to the art of layering. With fall in full swing, one of my favorite ways to continue wearing spring/summer pieces is by incorporating them into my autumn wardrobe. A great example is this featured piece on the blog today, a white satin dress with denim sleeves and collar. Normally this would be perfect to wear during the warmer seasons, but from the moment I laid eyes on this Satin Roses piece, I wanted to show you how you can style a dress like this from your closet and straight into your fall collection. It's easy as 1-2-3!

Satin Roses was launched in 2016 by designer Amanda Kamhawy. After finishing her education in Fashion Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology, Kamhawy began to focus on her own line that she had been envisioning since the age of seven. Inspired by something that women of all sizes can wear and feel great in came Satin Roses. In her quest to always give back, 10% of proceeds benefit will go to charity. Based in New York City, I had met Amanda last month at her preview collection held at the W in Union Square. I was immediately struck by the materials and shapes being used in her designs. Mesh, lace, faux-leather, satin, and more, it's very trendy but also has a decadent, luxurious quality and timeless staple to the collection.

I love the details of the white denim from this mostly-satin white dress. The blush-pink buttons down the front complement with the feminine touch of overall satin. To stay with the material, I paired the dress with black satin heels from Guess. But instead of wearing the dress by itself or with tights, I love layering these type of slip dress with a pair of jeans. These bell-bottom crop jeans by Genuine People is perfect for someone like me who is petite and short. The jeans help elongate my legs and with the heels, it definitely gives me the height I need!

To keep warm, I wore a long-sleeved bodysuit inside the satin dress and wore a leather jacket as outerwear. And then, to give a final balance and finished look, I wore this springbok bag tightly as a crossbody. It's a definite trend, which you will see much more in the next year. What do you guys think of this edgy, feminine fall look? Want to see more of Satin Roses Clothing and the collections? Go here to check it out!

LOVE & XX'S,

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Satin Roses Clothing Silk Dress with Denim Sleeves & Collar

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To Market to Market

October 11, 2017

WEARING: ROSEGAL MESH PANEL HIGH WAIST BLUE JUMPSUIT | GUESS SATIN PUMPS | 
ZAFUL TASSEL LAYERED DROP EARRINGS | THE LUXELLE SILVER PLATED CLUTCH

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ROSEGAL & ZAFUL.

When one runs to the grocery store, I think the last thing we're thinking about is the way we are dressed. Now who's to say what can one wear to and from the market? It should be fair game, no? But in reality, most of us are running in and out in our everyday getups - maybe even slipping in with our pjs every now and then, especially on a late night run. This is why I love fashion styling. You don't have to work with the rules of only reality. You can set greater expectations and create stories you wouldn't be able to otherwise without the garments, accessories and everything else in between when gathering a look into a concept. And with my new passion in video (as much as I piss and moan about the process of editing - because yes, it really is a pain) lately, I'm really into creating these teeny tidbits of short film all wrapped up within a minute and incorporating the video with photographs. Come check out this decadent late night run to the market, something I'd totally be doing after show at the Met Opera + dinner... I like having dessert at home.

How crazy luxurious-looking is this blue jumpsuit?! And the more insane part is that it's from Rosegal and it's less than $23! Sadly it's currently sold out! I just checked this morning as I was getting ready for publish this post. But there's other colors like black and red which are also perfect for the fall season! I love a good jumpsuit for date night - like I mentioned earlier this is something I'd wear to the opera or ballet, maybe even a special event of some kind, but it's definitely more on the dressy side for me and I love how confident I feel in it! My silver plated clutch is from The Luxelle, and I love how the bag fancies up the look.

I wore my favorite black pumps. They are from Guess and made of satin with a real sense of comfort. I've had them for years and I still wear them to this day. They can be worn with a pair of jeans or on the dressier side, like in this outfit. To keep the look playful and fun, I chose these multi-colored, layered tassel drop earrings from Zaful. The blues work well with the jumpsuit I feel. Lastly, I also wanted to show some of my favorite upcoming trends in hair & makeup that I saw during Fashion Month and two trends I've really loved are bright, colorful makeup and sleek hair. I did these looks myself - what's funny is these two things are quite familiar to me from back to my skating days. We did big, in your face, makeup, and perfect hair buns without a strand of hair out of place. I'm all for blue eyeshadow and light pink lips lately, it just gives your face that extra pop. What do you guys think of this whole look?

I'm always trying to elevate my creative work - it's not about competing with others. I never have and never will. I'm only in competition with myself and if I don't feel like I'm learning something everyday and getting better with my work, I feel really lost and frustrated. So creating these 'short films' as I call them at the moment, do mean a lot to me and I wouldn't do them if they didn't because a lot of time and energy goes into them. That's how I am with people too, but that's for another time over coffee. Ha ha! Anyhow, would you like to see more conceptualized stories such as this on the blog? I'd love to hear your thoughts so don't forget to drop a comment before you go! Thanks for stopping - follow me on Instagram and YouTube for the latest! See you guys soon. :)

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To market to market, it's never about competing with others but only with yourself. So I'm trying to bring you guys a new editorial every week, with a different concept in tune with fashion, style, and short film. And all in less than a minute.

LOVE & XX'S,

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Rosegal Mesh Panel High Waist Blue Jumpsuit

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Off to the Races

April 24, 2017

WEARING: ECHTEGO LACE DRESS | GUESS CARRIE BLACK SATIN PUMPS | 
BOOHOO MOCK CROC CLUTCH BAG

Do you guys remember the 'elevator' shoot from a few weeks ago? (Post link here.) If not, let me jog your memory. It was an editorial shoot with a navy blue dress by a great Korean designer, Sungmin Shim, for Echtego. I discovered her from a new showroom, Dreams On Air (DoA) here in New York City and was immediately attracted toward her style and collection. I love her designs so much, today's post is focusing on another beautiful piece from her 'Sentimental Vengeance' collection. And I will be telling you why I had to style this statement dress, not only because of it's aesthetic-gorgeousness.

I love when an object, whether a piece of clothing, a photograph, or a musical instrument can bubble certain memories/feelings toward the surface. It might be nostalgia or melancholy, perhaps both, with a tinge of hope, joy or fear (eek), but what I find so wonderful is its (objects) power to evoke sentiments we wouldn't have otherwise. And when I saw this black and white lace dress, it immediately drew me to my passion for Classical music. (Check out this dedicated post solely on that here!) You guys know I live for opera, but my first love when it comes to music is the Classical stuff. It's been in my life since my figure skating days, but something about the way it made me feel as I listened to it brought my attention to study it and learn from it. Nowadays, it's one of my main choices in music to listen to while writing. It keeps me centered and relaxed. Plus I just really love it. I just find it so incredible how an instrument can make you feel things you wouldn't feel from anywhere else, or with anyone else. Do I have any Classical music lovers out there?!

I used to go to the opera and the philharmonic like it was my religion, but I honestly haven't had the time to do so in a few years. Plus, I don't know many people (my age) that are as into it as I am. And that's perfectly fine, but damn I miss the hell out of it! And how lovely would this dress be for a night out for something like that? But I also think this dress also works well for the office or even attending a wedding! The tiny striped trim on the sides gives the lace dress a little bit more of a chill factor, as in easy and cool to wear. But I would really want to wear to this while doing something more on the fancier side. I feel confident and sexy in this number, so why not do something a bit more fun than just hitting the office in it? Have a great week, guys! :)

LOVE & XX'S,

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Soft Toughness

March 14, 2016

WEARING: FOREVER 21 FAUX LEATHER BOMBER JACKET |
VINTAGE BLACK & WHITE FLORAL PRINT CHOKER BLOUSE |
J BRAND JEANS MID-RISE SKINNY BLACK | 
SEPCOEUR PARIS SUEDE DRAWSTRING BAG | VERSACE BY H&M GOLD FLOWER RING | 
GUESS CARRIE BLACK SATIN PUMPS

Spring has sprung - well, sort of. The funky, somewhere in between winter and spring weather has got me bundling up in layers one day, and then strippin' 'em off the next! So, in tune with this unsteady climate, I wanted to incorporate a big trend, and one of my all-time favorite ways to style, the soft and the toughness together. I always find the combination of soft, feminine pieces with hard rock -n- roll textures and shapes to be quite interesting. A superb example? Check out Chloé's SS16 runway show from PFW. Perfect representation of this.

For this look, I paired up a vintage choker blouse I've had in my closet for years with a high-ponytail. I curled my hair to give it extra bounce to bring out the dancing playfulness from the blouse. To enhance the feminine pieces, I added a bangle from Express, vintage earrings, and a gold flower ring from Versace by H & M (on top with my engagement ring and wedding band). I also kept my makeup light and fresh to stay with the romantic yet free-spirited feel of the entire outfit.

As for the toughness, I had to go with my favorite faux leather bomber jacket from Forever 21. I don't shop as much there now that I'm getting older, but I still hold a few pieces, near and dear to me, through the years. They do have some decent stuff! More black on black means my go-to J Brand skinny jeans with my wedding shoes! Yes, you read that correct! I know some women solely pick out their dream shoes for when they get married only to wear it once. And that's totally cool! But I'm sentimental and I like to wear things that remind me of who I am and where I started from. You see that red Fender guitar pick on the sole of one of my Guess pumps? It belonged to my father. Since he could not be at our wedding because of his passing, I, of course, had to carry something that I knew was very important to him. And that was his guitar playing every day. When I wear these shoes, I feel like I'm marching on to the beat of his drum - or rather, his music. He always used to say, "keep on keeping on". 🎶

Lastly, I want to tell you about an amazing not-for-profit organization I will be collaborating with, that's paving their way in helping everyone have access to healthcare! How can you help pay for the trips of volunteer nurses IN FULL to impoverished countries around the world and at the same time not feel guilty about owning a designer handbag? By re-selling your donated purses to Purses for Nurses! It's that simple! You can either donate your purses OR you can purchase a gorgeous designer purse and all proceeds go to aiding in better healthcare to all. The Sep Coeur Paris drawstring bag from this look is from them! They've got Coach, Dooney & Bourke, Burberry, Gucci, Kate Spade and more! Please go check them out here now!

Coming up this week on the blog, a full recipe post on those sesame broccoli bites AND another post on my very first Korean-inspired cocktail recipe! Stay tuned... you'll definitely won't want to miss out on these! 😊❤️

Photos by Gilles Decamps